"Ex-Staff and Community Accuse AbleGamers Founder of Hidden Abuse"

Since its inception in 2004, AbleGamers has been a beacon of hope in the gaming industry, dedicated to enhancing accessibility and amplifying disabled voices. Over the past two decades, this nonprofit has made significant strides by hosting talks at industry events, raising millions through annual charity events, and serving as a vital resource for both developers and gamers. AbleGamers has become synonymous with video game accessibility, earning recognition as a key player in advancing inclusive gaming experiences.

Founded by Mark Barlet, AbleGamers has forged impactful partnerships with major studios. Collaborations include working with Xbox to develop the Xbox Adaptive Controller, PlayStation for the Access Controller, and even partnering with Bungie for exclusive merchandise. Additionally, AbleGamers has served as consultants, guiding developers on implementing accessibility options within their games. While the organization once provided adaptive gaming equipment to disabled individuals, it has recently shifted focus as the broader accessibility movement continues to expand.

However, recent reports from former employees and accessibility community members have shed light on serious allegations against the organization. These include claims of abuse, financial mismanagement, and a board that allegedly failed to protect its employees.

Advocating Under Strenuous Conditions

Mark Barlet aimed to create a charity that celebrated disabled inclusion in gaming. AbleGamers' website highlights services such as peer counseling, fostering a sense of community, and offering consulting services. Yet, former employees reveal a troubling contrast between the public mission and internal realities.

An anonymous former employee described experiencing sexist and emotionally abusive behavior from Barlet during their ten-year tenure. The employee was inappropriately designated as HR simply because she was the only woman in the organization. Barlet reportedly made light of HR issues, causing discomfort among staff. The source also recounted instances of aggressive behavior, including racist remarks and inappropriate comments about disabled individuals, as well as sexually explicit remarks directed at her.

The source noted that Barlet's behavior often turned hostile when confronted, deflecting criticism by claiming he was joking. His alleged harassment seemed to escalate as employees grew within the organization.

Toxicity Outside the Charity

Barlet's alleged inappropriate behavior extended beyond AbleGamers. Sources report that he demeaned and insulted other accessibility advocates, seemingly aiming to position AbleGamers as the sole authority on accessibility. At industry events like The Game Accessibility Conference, Barlet reportedly criticized other speakers and belittled their contributions.

Other accessibility advocates corroborated these accounts, detailing instances where Barlet interrupted discussions and asserted dominance over the accessibility space, even threatening to undermine other projects if his demands were not met.

Financial Mismanagement

As the former Executive Director, Barlet's role in financial management has come under scrutiny. Despite raising millions for disabled players, allegations of wasteful spending have surfaced. Former employees described lavish expenditures, including first-class flights, unnecessary hotel stays, and expensive meals, which contrasted with the organization's financial struggles.

A notable example is the purchase of a van intended for mobile services, which was deemed ineffective during the pandemic. Additionally, the installation of a Tesla charger at headquarters, used only by Barlet, drew criticism. There were also concerns about salary discrepancies, with some employees allegedly receiving higher pay despite less responsibility, hinting at favoritism.

Leadership Failures

Amidst financial concerns, the board hired a Certified Public Accountant as Chief Financial Officer, who reportedly raised alarms about the organization's finances. However, the board allegedly failed to act on these warnings, and the CFO eventually left the organization.

Both former employees criticized the board for not protecting staff and for slow responses to serious allegations. An investigation initiated by a former employee through ADP, a payroll and HR service, recommended Barlet's immediate termination. Despite this, the board allegedly ignored the findings.

The situation escalated with EEOC complaints filed in May and June 2024, citing racism, ableism, sexual harassment, and misogyny. The board's internal investigation was criticized for its slow pace and perceived lack of independence, as it was conducted by a law firm with ties to AbleGamers.

Barlet's departure was announced in September 2024, but not without controversy. He received severance, and several employees who had spoken out against his behavior were reportedly let go. Former leadership, including Steven Spohn, allegedly attempted to dissuade former employees from speaking publicly about their experiences.

Barlet's Comments

Following his departure, Barlet, along with Cheryl Mitchell, founded AccessForge, an accessibility consulting group catering to various industries. In response to allegations of workplace abuse and harassment, Barlet claimed an independent investigation cleared him, asserting the accusations arose after he was advised to reduce the workforce.

Barlet denied claims of lavish spending, explaining office meals as perks for local employees and justifying extended hotel stays as necessary for securing donations and contracts. He also defended first-class flight purchases as part of a board-approved travel policy, citing his disability as a reason for the upgrades.

Regarding salary disputes, Barlet maintained that compensation was based on education, experience, and position, a claim disputed by sources who felt underpaid relative to their qualifications. He denied purchasing a Tesla charger, describing it as a plug instead.

Barlet insisted that board members were accessible via Slack, a claim refuted by sources who noted the independent board's absence from the platform.

Throughout his responses, Barlet provided no documentation to support his claims, insisting on off-the-record communication. The allegations have deeply affected former employees, with one source lamenting the destruction of what was once their dream job.

AbleGamers, once a beacon for disabled gamers, now faces significant challenges as it navigates these allegations and seeks to rebuild trust within the community it serves.